Government Systems and Political Ideologies

Taiwan (Republic of China)

Special features of the country

ROC Constitution is founded by China’s great revolutionary Dr Sun Yat Sen’s Three Principles of the People(known in Chinese as san ming zhu yi三民主义): Nationalism, Democracy and People’s livelihood. Under this constitution, the authority has to serve the nation and citizens in exchange for the power granted to it. People are also guaranteed freedoms and many rights in various social aspects, equal treatment and a decent livelihood. Personal property is also protected under the constitution. Actions taken by the government must also accord with the provinces stated in the constitution. The purpose of all this is to create a nation of democracy, economic prosperity, social security and justice. The Principal of Nationalism demands autonomy in the international community as well as equal treatment.

Taipei 101

History

This is the country whose economic development was recognized by the global community as economic miracle, this is the country that experiences rises and falls of significance in Asia and world and this is the country that was once the head of the “4 Asian Tigers”. This is the Republic of China, or known to many as Taiwan-the land of freedom in Asia. In this chapter, we will have a closer look at its political structure and focus on the importance of the constitutional reforms that shape the present democratic Taiwan. A short analysis of the long journey this small island has taken to achieve economic success will also be included.

Structure of Government

The governmental structure of ROC has 3 levels, the Central Level (Presidency, National Assembly and five branches of government), special municipality(Taichung and Kaoshiung) level and the local level consisting of five provincial municipality and 16 county governments. The 5 branches of government refer to Legislative, Executive, Judical, Examination and Control. Here I will just be explaining to you the 4 main branches in charge of governmental administration. This makes it very much like the governmental structure adopted in United State.
Legislative Yuan is the administrative branch that has the most power among the 5 brances. It implement and direct government policy. In addition, it also audit and hear report of administration or from president each year, check the budget, instigate impeachment procedures against president and vice president, supervise the work of Executive Yuan and confirm the administrative members appointed by the president. The Legislative members are elected by the people and can serve for 3 years. The Executive Yuan is heading the ROC cabinet It has several subordinate organizations such as the Executive Yuan council, the eight ministries (interior, foreign affairs, national defence. Etc) as well as commissions such as Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission as well as other departments and administration. The Judicial Yuan is the highest judicial body of the state. It consists of the Council of Grand Justices whose members are appointed by the president, Supreme Court, high courts, district courts and other subordinate units. Its role is to oversee the nation’s court system. The main responsibility of Control Yuan is to supervise governments at all levels and holding powers of impeachment, censure and audit. The members are forbid from holding other public office and profession, as well as being a member of certain political party. The president is the head of state and the highest representative of the nation．It was elected directly by the people instead of the National Assembly. The president is allowed to hold his office for 2 terms of 4 years. He is the representative in all foreign relations and state function. Acts are conducted in his name. He commands the military forces, announce a law or a decree, and convene the National Assembly. However, to prevent him from possessing too much power, the control yuan can impeach against the president if ever he is suspected of corruption and not operating according to constitution. The National Assembly, after six constitutional amendments made, has most of its powers transferred to Legislative Yuan. It is a non-standing body whose powers include voting on constitutional amendments, presidential impeachment or alteration of national boundaries.

Economy

There are many stages of economic development. The first stage, which serves as a foundation for a democratic ROC and beginning of a prosperous and stable economy starts in 1949 when the KMT (Kuomingtang) central government relocated to Taiwan after defeated by the communists. It was not over; the KMT faced with immense threat from Mainland Chinese communists as minor sea combats took place at the Straits of Taiwan. Thanks to the close diplomatic ties with other democratic countries and the support of USA, the economic situation was quite fine. In 1971, Taiwan ended the close relationship with its big partner, USA, and the economy declined drastically and the situation was quite dire. However with a efficient authoritarian government and a one-party system and the implementation of Emergency Decree (started in 1949) in which some but not many rights were temporally frozen, modernization was promoted with the resultant political stability. With per capita income rising from less than US$100 in 1949 to US$186 in 1952 and to US$1,193 by 1977, no wonder the international community regard Taiwan’s economic progress as miracle. The change in social stratification resulted in more people joining the middle and upper class. More people in high social status means more political participation. Subsequently, Taiwan become more and more democratic and developed from a “one party reigns supreme” state to a bipartisan state and then to the present multi-party state following a series of democratic reforms and revision of constitution. However, what follows is political chaos we see on the TV in Taiwan nowadays in which vicious competition took place between various political parties. In my recent interviews with several Taiwanese, many expressed their disappointment of the poor performance the government. Many were sick of the cheap promises made by politicians and some were particularly sick about the splitting of ethnical groups in Taiwan initiated by the current central government, Democratic Progressive Government. In amidst of this political mayhem, some look forward to the period of Emergency Decree when political and social security are guaranteed. Taiwan is also lagging behind the 4 Asian Tigers , namely Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and South Korea while it used to be the top 2, 3 decades ago.

Literacy rate

The literacy rate in Taiwan has been quite high. In 1994, it was reported that the literacy rate is 94%, a big jump from less than 60% in 1952, thanks its government who put a emphasis on providing the young citizens with knowledge and skills; education was made compulsory. All youths have to complete their high school education.

Will Taiwan’s democracy work in China?

It is very impossible for a democracy like that of Taiwan to work on a gigantic country like China. The government in China have already troubled by corruptions of members within its polity, surely a democratic and open system like that of Taiwan will posed great disasters for China to govern China. Furthermore, China, consisting of over 50 ethnic groups, if ever freedom of speech were allowed, will split asunder like the fate of Russia

Will Chinese Communism work in Taiwan?

At first, large number of peasants, namely farmers and workers, of many countries, supported communism. Though Taiwan's economy less than 50 years of Japanese Occupation (that was before Chinese Nationalist came) was largely agricultural based, the society comprised of many outstanding Taiwanese who prospered and became well off under Japanese rule. These people had respect from local farmers and peasant and had an influence on them as well, due to the fact that the supported and the supporters were both Chinese. With a considerable portion of educated class, demand for recognition and political participation was certain. Hence, a communist system probably won't receive enough support from this section of middle class. Besides, the Taiwanese had been long comfortable with the idea of private ownership. Even farmers felt secured since the policy of 375 percent rent limitation that stopped the farmers from being exploited by big landowners.

References

Education and Literacy in Taiwan. (2000). Retrieved March 26, 2008, from http://www.asianinfo.org/asianinfo/taiwan/pro-education.htm .

Fang, W. (2007, March 21). Political chaos in Taiwan may spawn extremist organizations. Retrieved March 26, 2008 from , Web site: http://www.chinapost.com.tw/editorial/detail.asp?ID=105152&GRP=i

Politics in Taiwan. (2000). Retrieved March 26, 2008, from http://www.asianinfo.org/asianinfo/taiwan/pro-politics.htm.

Taiwan is lagging tiger, say European business leaders. (2007, June 11). Retrieved March 26, 2008, from http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007%5C11%5C06%5Cstory_6-11-2007_pg5_34.

The Story of Taiwan - Politics. (n.d.). Retrieved March 26, 2008, from http://www.taiwan.com.au/Polieco/History/ROC/report02.html.

	Taiwan (Republic of China) Special features of the country ROC Constitution is founded by China’s great revolutionary Dr Sun Yat Sen’s Three Principles of the People(known in Chinese as san ming zhu yi三民主义): Nationalism, Democracy and People’s livelihood. Under this constitution, the authority has to serve the nation and citizens in exchange for the power granted to it. People are also guaranteed freedoms and many rights in various social aspects, equal treatment and a decent livelihood. Personal property is also protected under the constitution. Actions taken by the government must also accord with the provinces stated in the constitution. The purpose of all this is to create a nation of democracy, economic prosperity, social security and justice. The Principal of Nationalism demands autonomy in the international community as well as equal treatment. History This is the country whose economic development was recognized by the global community as economic miracle, this is the country that experiences rises and falls of significance in Asia and world and this is the country that was once the head of the “4 Asian Tigers”. This is the Republic of China, or known to many as Taiwan-the land of freedom in Asia. In this chapter, we will have a closer look at its political structure and focus on the importance of the constitutional reforms that shape the present democratic Taiwan. A short analysis of the long journey this small island has taken to achieve economic success will also be included. Structure of Government The governmental structure of ROC has 3 levels, the Central Level (Presidency, National Assembly and five branches of government), special municipality(Taichung and Kaoshiung) level and the local level consisting of five provincial municipality and 16 county governments. The 5 branches of government refer to Legislative, Executive, Judical, Examination and Control. Here I will just be explaining to you the 4 main branches in charge of governmental administration. This makes it very much like the governmental structure adopted in United State. Legislative Yuan is the administrative branch that has the most power among the 5 brances. It implement and direct government policy. In addition, it also audit and hear report of administration or from president each year, check the budget, instigate impeachment procedures against president and vice president, supervise the work of Executive Yuan and confirm the administrative members appointed by the president. The Legislative members are elected by the people and can serve for 3 years. The Executive Yuan is heading the ROC cabinet It has several subordinate organizations such as the Executive Yuan council, the eight ministries (interior, foreign affairs, national defence. Etc) as well as commissions such as Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission as well as other departments and administration. The Judicial Yuan is the highest judicial body of the state. It consists of the Council of Grand Justices whose members are appointed by the president, Supreme Court, high courts, district courts and other subordinate units. Its role is to oversee the nation’s court system. The main responsibility of Control Yuan is to supervise governments at all levels and holding powers of impeachment, censure and audit. The members are forbid from holding other public office and profession, as well as being a member of certain political party. The president is the head of state and the highest representative of the nation．It was elected directly by the people instead of the National Assembly. The president is allowed to hold his office for 2 terms of 4 years. He is the representative in all foreign relations and state function. Acts are conducted in his name. He commands the military forces, announce a law or a decree, and convene the National Assembly. However, to prevent him from possessing too much power, the control yuan can impeach against the president if ever he is suspected of corruption and not operating according to constitution. The National Assembly, after six constitutional amendments made, has most of its powers transferred to Legislative Yuan. It is a non-standing body whose powers include voting on constitutional amendments, presidential impeachment or alteration of national boundaries. Economy There are many stages of economic development. The first stage, which serves as a foundation for a democratic ROC and beginning of a prosperous and stable economy starts in 1949 when the KMT (Kuomingtang) central government relocated to Taiwan after defeated by the communists. It was not over; the KMT faced with immense threat from Mainland Chinese communists as minor sea combats took place at the Straits of Taiwan. Thanks to the close diplomatic ties with other democratic countries and the support of USA, the economic situation was quite fine. In 1971, Taiwan ended the close relationship with its big partner, USA, and the economy declined drastically and the situation was quite dire. However with a efficient authoritarian government and a one-party system and the implementation of Emergency Decree (started in 1949) in which some but not many rights were temporally frozen, modernization was promoted with the resultant political stability. With per capita income rising from less than US$100 in 1949 to US$186 in 1952 and to US$1,193 by 1977, no wonder the international community regard Taiwan’s economic progress as miracle. The change in social stratification resulted in more people joining the middle and upper class. More people in high social status means more political participation. Subsequently, Taiwan become more and more democratic and developed from a “one party reigns supreme” state to a bipartisan state and then to the present multi-party state following a series of democratic reforms and revision of constitution. However, what follows is political chaos we see on the TV in Taiwan nowadays in which vicious competition took place between various political parties. In my recent interviews with several Taiwanese, many expressed their disappointment of the poor performance the government. Many were sick of the cheap promises made by politicians and some were particularly sick about the splitting of ethnical groups in Taiwan initiated by the current central government, Democratic Progressive Government. In amidst of this political mayhem, some look forward to the period of Emergency Decree when political and social security are guaranteed. Taiwan is also lagging behind the 4 Asian Tigers , namely Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and South Korea while it used to be the top 2, 3 decades ago. Literacy rate The literacy rate in Taiwan has been quite high. In 1994, it was reported that the literacy rate is 94%, a big jump from less than 60% in 1952, thanks its government who put a emphasis on providing the young citizens with knowledge and skills; education was made compulsory. All youths have to complete their high school education. Will Taiwan’s democracy work in China? It is very impossible for a democracy like that of Taiwan to work on a gigantic country like China. The government in China have already troubled by corruptions of members within its polity, surely a democratic and open system like that of Taiwan will posed great disasters for China to govern China. Furthermore, China, consisting of over 50 ethnic groups, if ever freedom of speech were allowed, will split asunder like the fate of Russia Will Chinese Communism work in Taiwan? At first, large number of peasants, namely farmers and workers, of many countries, supported communism. Though Taiwan's economy less than 50 years of Japanese Occupation (that was before Chinese Nationalist came) was largely agricultural based, the society comprised of many outstanding Taiwanese who prospered and became well off under Japanese rule. These people had respect from local farmers and peasant and had an influence on them as well, due to the fact that the supported and the supporters were both Chinese. With a considerable portion of educated class, demand for recognition and political participation was certain. Hence, a communist system probably won't receive enough support from this section of middle class. Besides, the Taiwanese had been long comfortable with the idea of private ownership. Even farmers felt secured since the policy of 375 percent rent limitation that stopped the farmers from being exploited by big landowners. References Education and Literacy in Taiwan. (2000). Retrieved March 26, 2008, from http://www.asianinfo.org/asianinfo/taiwan/pro-education.htm . Fang, W. (2007, March 21). Political chaos in Taiwan may spawn extremist organizations. Retrieved March 26, 2008 from , Web site: http://www.chinapost.com.tw/editorial/detail.asp?ID=105152&GRP=i Politics in Taiwan. (2000). Retrieved March 26, 2008, from http://www.asianinfo.org/asianinfo/taiwan/pro-politics.htm. Taiwan is lagging tiger, say European business leaders. (2007, June 11). Retrieved March 26, 2008, from http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007%5C11%5C06%5Cstory_6-11-2007_pg5_34. The Story of Taiwan - Politics. (n.d.). Retrieved March 26, 2008, from http://www.taiwan.com.au/Polieco/History/ROC/report02.html.
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A to Z government systems A system where a Government is unnecessary and undesirable whichmeans that everything is based on voluntary cooperation by individuals and groups A system where a Government is unnecessary and undesirable which means that everything is based on voluntary cooperation by individuals and groups One person who has absolute rule over a country or a state and is usually hereditary or they claim as being given divine right with or without advisors. A system combining Anarchism and capitalism A system where there is no State or capitalism A system combing Anarchism and savagery where savagery means acceptance comes easily. A system where there are no hierarchies such as political or economic hierarchies. A system where labour is emphasized and thus it has trade unions that replace the State A system where there is more democratic decision-making A government with only a few people who are thought to be best qualified. A system where the people vote on the legislation and executive bills instead of electing leaders to do it for them. A concentration of power in a leader who is not constitutionally responsible to the people A one person government. A system that is ruled by enlightened monarchs. A system that is suitable for Islams as this system represents the political unity of the Muslims A system that combines republic and capitalism together. A system where the health of the community is the first priority A system where there is no such thing as a private property because the goods are owned by the government and is available to anyone if needed A system where many opinions are taken into consideration before making decisions The system of Constitutional Monarchy has a Head of State that does not change as the governments change and a Government. Only the elected Officials can pass laws, the Head of State acts as an advisor to the Officials. Leaders are elected by the people but the leaders have a limited power over the people and must go according to constitutional laws A system where there are civic assemblies which represents the country's economic, social, industry and cultural aspects A system where the making of laws must arise from the public if not the law cannot be approved. A system where there is democratic representations in a country without the use of elections. A democratic republic is a country where there is freedom of speech, election and press. A system where two rulers have equal shared absolute power over the country Government organization or group in with unlimited power A true democratic system where the people elect their leaders System where ruler with absolute power over the country. A system similar to that of tyranny where all is controlled by one man. A system ruled by dukes or duchesses A system combining Anarchism but with saving the environment as their first priority. A monarchy whose ruler is elected by the people. A monarchy that is Arab-suited A system that concentrates on the society's welfare as a whole and thus seeks patriotism. A system used by the medieval age where warriors and nobility rule. A system where the oldest are the leaders A system ruled by grand dukes or grand duchesses A system where the power lies with the loser level of government such as the name suggests, grassroots A system for the Jews because non-Jews would not be granted full citizenship. A monarchy where the kingship is passed to the sons when the father dies. A system with the Pope as its leader. A system where the people elect their leaders but the leaders have the freedom to do what they want. A system combining democracy with a religion, Islam A name that is given to many Muslim countries Government by those who want power and personal gain. A system where judges rule and rules by natural rights A system where judges rule but based on the judges opinions A system where the people elect the leaders to make decisions for them. A system which emphasizes on liberty, freedom for the people. A system where absolute power is given to magicians and wizards A government where females rule. Government by those with talent. A system where military force is used to establish freedom and liberty. A military-based government that has absolute rule over the country A system combining oligarchy, democracy and monarchy. A democratic system where there are no government parties. A small group which makes up the government which is usually corrupted and do things for their own sake. Government by the majority. A system where the people are allowed to coose whatever government system they want. A system similar to the parliamentary system except that the head of state does not have that much power. A system where the parliament checks on the executive branch of the government A system where voting is limited and where politicians take care of the governing of the country A system where the people vote on the legislation and executive bills instead of electing leaders to do it for them. Timocracy, Government controlled by the rich. A state where government uses police by means to control the life of the citizens. A monarchy where the monarch's title is linked to the people. A system where the executive branch is independent of the legislative branch. A monarchy where the monarch's title is prince A system combining democracy and religion A system where the government is elected by the people and the government has the responsibility in acting in people's interest. A system where there is restricted democracy A system where robots rule One person who proclaims himself as king which would usually lead to hereditary monarchy. A system similar to that of a presidential system except for the fact that the president and prime minister gets involved in everyday decision-making. A system where there is only 1 government party running the country and no other party is allowed to enter for elections. A system combining socialism and democracy A system that emphasizes on socialism that also has aspects of free market in its economy. A democratic system where workers are represented in government too. A system where the rulers are those highly-skilled and qualified. Maritime (relating to navigation or commerce on the sea) government Government of a state by divine rule, usually by people who are guided by the deities Government of a state by God. A democratic system where the leader is elected but has absolute rule. Absolute state which the people must follow orders from. Tribalism existed during the time of primitive men. Thus, it has a sense of primitive in it. However, it also emphasizes on communism and equality. A government ruled by an oppressive and severely unjust ruler. A system with administrative divisions governed by a person who is governed by the viceroy. A system combining democracy and parliamentary system which is somewhat similar to the United nations is adopting Auto: Manual: Drag Me